Students will learn the basics of evolution and trace how plants changed over millions of years, from simple algae to the flowering plants we see today. We’ll investigate algae, mosses, ferns, gymnosperms, and angiosperms, discovering the key adaptations that set each group apart and helped plants conquer life on land. Along the way, students will examine real examples in nature and learn to recognize the evolutionary innovations that changed the plant world.

Step back in time to explore two of Earth’s earliest groups of land plants! Students will investigate mosses and ferns in the field, discovering how these ancient plants reproduce without seeds, why they thrive in moist environments, and the adaptations that helped plants make the transition from water to land.

Explore the fascinating world of gymnosperms…the ancient seed plants that dominated Earth long before flowering plants appeared! Students will investigate conifers in the field, examine needles and cones, and discover how these plants reproduce without flowers or fruits. And yes, there will probably be giggling about the world sperm! 😂

Our focus will be on the the incredible diversity of angiosperms…the flowering plants that dominate our world today! Students will investigate flowers in the field, learn how flowering plants reproduce, and discover the important relationships between plants and their pollinators. We’ll examine flower anatomy, compare different types of flowers, explore how flowers become fruits and seeds, and much more.

We’re looking below the surface this week…to show plants work from the inside out! Students will investigate the structures and systems that keep plants alive, from roots that absorb water to leaves that capture sunlight. We’ll explore roots, stems, leaves, xylem and phloem, photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomata, using real plants to see these processes in action.

Discover the amazing ways plants survive and thrive in challenging environments! Students will investigate adaptations that help plants conserve water, capture sunlight, defend themselves, climb toward the light, and survive heat, cold, fire, and hungry herbivores.

For our last botany unit, we’re uncovering the hidden relationships that connect plants to the world around them! Students will investigate how plants interact with pollinators, seed dispersers, fungi, other plants, and even microorganisms in the soil. We’ll explore symbiosis, mycorrhizal fungi, competition, parasitic plants, and seed dispersal.

Essentials

• Sturdy, closed toe walking/hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support. NO flip flops, crocs, etc.
• Full water bottle
• Positive attitude!

Advance online registration and payment are required to attend your first workshop. Parents are allowed to attend the first class for free to observe. Subsequent classes are $10 for parent attendance.

Families who attend a field trip will receive priority registration for the following week by paying in cash at the end of the current field trip and a 15% discount for siblings. Any remaining spaces will open for online registration at 5:00 PM that Monday. Your spot is confirmed once payment is received; spots cannot be held without payment.

Cancellations: Cancellations made prior to 24 hours before the trip will receive a class credit. Credits must be used within 2 weeks and cannot be carried forward after that.

If I must cancel a field trip, you will have the option of a refund or carrying a class credit for one month.

Because space is limited, repeated cancellations prevent other families from participating. If you cancel more than three times within a four-month period, you will no longer be eligible for class credits. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the field trip are not eligible for a credit. Refunds are only offered if I have to cancel a class.

Behavior standards: Safety violations, bullying, inappropriate language, or other disruptive conduct are not tolerated. One warning will be issued (parent and student meeting). A second offense results in dismissal from the program for 1 year.